how to know your weeds, with richard dickinson

One of the best resources ever for those wishing to know their weeds is the book “Weeds of North America,” published in 2014 by University of Chicago Press, and co-authored by Richard Dickinson, with France Royer. Since its release, it is always at the ready here—with information about 500 species, plus photos of most every one at every life phase from seed to seedling to full plant and leaf and flower detail. There will be no mistaking weed from wildflower or garden plant again. 

Toronto-based Richard Dickinson has taught plant taxonomy for more than 25 years, and he joined me to talk about every gardener’s favorite—or is it unfavorite?—subject, weeds. I learned how they get so good at being weedy, and what their environmental impact is beyond taking space away from desired plants (spreading plant diseases, or harming monarch butterflies, for example). I also got a 101 on how gardeners can learn to “key out” one plant from another, using simple clues like a taxonomist does.

Read along as you listen to the May 16, 2016 edition of my public-radio show and podcast using the player below. You can subscribe to all future editions on iTunes or Stitcher (and browse my archive of podcasts here).

Q. What got your started with weeds? I have to ask. It’s an interesting path; I get when people are into plants—and of course weeds are plants. [Laughter.]

A. It’s interesting because our first few field guides were